New York Police Chief Jeffrey Maddrey Resigns Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations
The New York Police Department’s (NYPD) highest-ranking uniformed officer, Jeffrey Maddrey, has stepped down following serious allegations of sexual harassment. Maddrey, who served as Chief of Department, resigned abruptly on Friday, hours before a sexual harassment complaint was filed against him with the state Division of Human Rights.
The complaint, lodged by Lt. Quathisha Epps, who worked in Maddrey’s office, accuses him of coercing her into unwanted sexual acts in exchange for workplace benefits, including overtime opportunities. Epps claims that Maddrey “engaged in a quid pro quo sexual harassment” and forced her to facilitate similar unwanted advances toward another female officer. The complaint also alleges that Maddrey maintained an inappropriate sexual relationship with a female detective.
The NYPD confirmed Maddrey’s resignation in a press release on Saturday, stating that Chief of Patrol John Chell has been appointed interim Chief of Department.
“Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch accepted the resignation of Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey Friday night, effective immediately,” the statement read. “The NYPD takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and will thoroughly investigate this matter.”
Epps, who holds an administrative post, has also accused Maddrey of retaliatory actions. She claims that after rejecting his advances, he manipulated her overtime records, which led to both criminal and internal investigations against her.
Earlier this week, Epps made headlines when payroll records revealed she earned $400,000 in 2023, including $204,000 in overtime for her administrative role. The allegations have raised questions about the internal operations and oversight within the NYPD.
The case has sparked significant public interest, with calls for a thorough investigation into the claims and the broader culture within the police department.